John Pettigrew – Recognition for Services to Energy

John Pettigrew has received national recognition for his longstanding contribution to the UK energy sector and electricity infrastructure. After a 35-year career with National Grid, culminating in his role as Group Chief Executive, Pettigrew was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 2026 New Year Honours for services to energy. The honour was announced by the UK Government on 29 December 2025 and formally recognises his contribution to an industry of strategic importance to the UK.

John Pettigrew

CBE – 2026 New Year Honours

The CBE is one of the honours within the Order of the British Empire and recognises significant contributions to public life and service. In the 2026 New Year Honours List, John Mark Pettigrew is recorded as “Lately Chief Executive Officer, National Grid. For services to Energy.” The citation reflects his position following his retirement from National Grid and acknowledges his contribution to the energy sector during his career.

The award came at the conclusion of an extensive career at National Grid. Pettigrew joined the organisation as a graduate and progressed through a succession of engineering, operational and executive positions. He ultimately became Group Chief Executive in 2016, leading the organisation through a period of substantial change across the energy industry.

Leadership in Electricity Networks and Energy Infrastructure

Pettigrew's professional recognition is closely associated with his leadership of a major energy infrastructure organisation. During his tenure, the UK energy system faced significant changes, including increasing electrification, the expansion of renewable energy and the need for substantial investment in electricity transmission and distribution networks.

His career encompassed a broad range of responsibilities across engineering, operations, electricity distribution, gas networks and corporate leadership. This experience placed him at the centre of major infrastructure and energy-sector developments, while his position as Group Chief Executive gave him responsibility for leading National Grid through a period of transformation.

A Career Recognised Nationally

The 2026 CBE provides national recognition at the end of a career spanning more than three decades in one of the UK's most important infrastructure sectors. It places Pettigrew among individuals recognised in the New Year Honours for contributions to the UK's economic, professional and public life.

For the energy industry, the recognition highlights the importance of experienced leadership in managing critical infrastructure and responding to the changing requirements of the energy system. Pettigrew's career represents a long-term contribution to electricity networks, energy infrastructure and corporate leadership.

Recognition and Legacy

John Pettigrew's CBE stands as the principal national honour associated with his career and provides formal recognition of his contribution to energy. His professional journey—from beginning his career at National Grid to becoming Group Chief Executive—reflects decades of involvement in the development and management of essential energy infrastructure.

His recognition in the 2026 New Year Honours therefore marks an important milestone in a career defined by leadership, infrastructure development and service to the energy sector.